As the baby boom generation approaches retirement, a growing number of Gen Xers are already making plans for their future living arrangements. With a desire to age in place and maintain their independence, many members of Generation X are searching for homes that can accommodate their needs as they grow older.

According to a report from the Harvard Joint Center for Housing Studies, 88% of older adults (65 years and older) lived in their own homes in 2021. This trend is not exclusive to Gen X, as people of all generations value the ability to grow older in their own homes rather than moving to a retirement facility or living with family.

However, homebuilders are starting to notice a rising demand among Gen Xers for homes they can comfortably live in as they age. David O'Reilly, CEO of Howard Hughes Holdings, which builds planned communities, attests to this trend, stating that many Gen Xers, who are currently empty nesters, are actively seeking homes that can support their changing needs.

Gen Xers, who currently have a median income of $126,900, are growing their wealth and have a significant amount of home equity. In 2023, Gen X had a homeownership rate of 72%, higher than that of millennials at 55%. This financial stability allows them to consider purchasing larger homes that can accommodate their multigenerational households.

To meet the demands of Gen X buyers, homebuilders are incorporating health and wellness amenities such as hiking trails, tennis courts, and fitness classes into new developments. Additionally, features like showers instead of bathtubs, raised electrical outlets, and toilets with higher seats are becoming popular requests to ensure comfort and accessibility.

Furthermore, Gen Xers are looking for homes that incorporate technology to assist with aging, such as sensors that can detect falls and send alerts for help. This tech-savvy generation values smart home automation capabilities that allow them to control various aspects of their home through smartphones and apps.

The COVID-19 pandemic has also influenced Gen Xers' decisions to purchase retirement homes earlier than anticipated. The tight housing market, coupled with the ability to work remotely, has led many to view their home purchase as a long-term investment rather than a short-term solution. This mindset is particularly relevant as the housing market experiences price increases, causing concerns about affordability in the future.

In addition to planning for their own retirement, Gen Xers often find themselves in the sandwich generation, supporting both their adult children and aging parents. This further fuels the need for larger homes that can accommodate multigenerational living arrangements.

With these considerations in mind, Gen Xers like the Shipley family from Texas are seeking out homes that offer enough space to accommodate visiting family members and provide potential living accommodations for their elderly parents. Developers like GL Homes are prioritizing the needs of Gen Xers, designing floor plans and amenities that cater to their desires for a lifelong home.

As the oldest members of Generation X approach retirement age, the housing industry has taken notice of their unique preferences and requirements. With their financial stability and desire for long-term comfort and convenience, Gen Xers are reshaping the real estate market, propelling developers to cater to their evolving needs in terms of space, technology, and multigenerational living accommodations.